The father of Kehinde Paul Alade, a 14-year-old student killed by a police stray bullet in Ibadan, has demanded justice for his son’s death. The incident occurred on Tuesday in the Alakia area of Ibadan, Oyo State, while Mr Odunayo Alade took his late son and brother to school.

Mr Alade strongly refuted the police’s claim that the officers suspected a case of abduction. “I am not a kidnapper,” he said. “I was surprised to hear that the police said they suspected a case of abduction. I am not a kidnapper.”

The Oyo State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, had earlier stated that the officers involved acted on suspicion of possible criminal activity or abduction.

Meanwhile, Mr Oluwamayowa Oke, a medical practitioner and family friend, criticised the police during a visit to the Alakia residence of the bereaved family. He called for an end to police brutality, urging the Nigeria Police Force to focus on protecting citizens.

In response to the public outcry, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident. The IGP, through the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, condemned the shooting and confirmed that the officer responsible had been taken into custody.

“The Inspector-General of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident involving personnel of the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority, which led to the unfortunate demise of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade,” Adejobi stated.

He added, “The process will be transparent, and its findings will be made public to ensure justice is duly served. The IGP extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased.”

The Oyo State government also weighed in, stating that the student’s father had been driving against traffic when the incident occurred.